The Grésivaudan valley offers an idyllic setting where agriculture flourishes despite the predominance of industry. Here, dairy farms rub shoulders with market gardening and cereal growing, while livestock provide quality products, anchoring agriculture at the heart of the valley’s identity.
The fertile soils and picturesque villages of the Grésivaudan valley bear witness to its rural heritage. During the 19th century, the rise of industry saw the emergence of a class of worker-peasants, cultivating the land while carrying out craft activities. Today, this heritage lives on in a multitude of farms, where tradition and modernity combine harmoniously.
The gastronomic richness of the Grésivaudan valley stems from its privileged location between Isère and Savoie. Local farmers and producers offer a diverse range of quality products, the region’s culinary jewels: nuts, fruit, vegetables, cereals, cheeses and more. Many of the valley’s farms specialize in livestock production, emphasizing quality over quantity. By opting for complete processing circuits, they add artisanal value to their products. The transformation of milk into cheese, the cutting of meat and the production of charcuterie are all testimony to this commitment to excellence.
Faced with a growing demand for proximity and authenticity, more and more producers are turning to direct sales channels. Around a third of farms have adopted this approach, offering local consumers and visitors a unique taste experience. Products from the Grésivaudan valley can be found directly on farms, at local markets or in producers’ outlets, contributing to a thriving local economy.
Some farmers even go so far as to diversify their activities by offering tourist accommodation, such as gîtes or inns, giving visitors the opportunity to discover life on the farm and sample local delicacies in an authentic, friendly setting.